Starbucks to display calorie counts

Starbucks Corp. said it will show calorie information for its coffees and snacks at all U.S. locations starting later this month.

The company said on Tuesday the labels, which will soon be required by the government, are meant to encourage health-conscious consumers to further customize orders by opting for sugar-free syrups or nonfat milk over more calorie heavy alternatives.

"People are already customizing their drinks," said Lisa Passe, a Starbucks spokeswoman.

She added that the coffee company's pastries will also come with a calorie count.

Starbucks' decision follows moves by Panera Bread Co., the first national restaurant chain to voluntarily post calorie counts, and sandwich chain Subway, which has used the disclosures to position itself as a healthier alternative to its fast-food rivals.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is expected to require chains with 20 locations or more to make similar disclosures nationwide by the end of the year. Food chains in New York City and California already post nutritional statistics to comply with local health regulations.

Researchers are split over the effectiveness of the labels in improving public health. One study in New York City, which has mandated the labels for several years, found that calorie postings led one in six customers to notice the information and buy foods with fewer calories.